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John A. Wissmann Jr.

John was born on Oct. 21, 1939, in Shawano to the late John and Adela (Schwartz) Wissmann Sr. John graduated from Shawano High School and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in math and science education. On Aug. 27, 1961, he was united in marriage to Nancy Jane Sachs in Seymour.

John was an active fourth-generation member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Pella. He taught Sunday school and confirmation classes for nearly 30 years, as well as served on the council as secretary, treasurer, vice president and deacon. John was past president of the men’s organization at church and a member of Gideons International for many years. He worked on the family dairy farm, taking over in 1970. While running and expanding a successful dairy farm, he taught mathematics at Shawano High School.

During his 33 years as a teacher, John “Slim” Wissmann was known for his great storytelling. He was also an accomplished builder, building sheds, barns and the family home with trees harvested from the property. He was an avid dartball and softball player, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, playing cards, crafting maple syrup and attending Bible class at St. James.

He was preceded in death by a stillborn daughter; his parents; his brother, Dan Wissmann; and brothers-in-law, Robert Jasman, Philip Sachs and Richard Sachs.

Funeral services for John will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Pella with the Rev. Tim Lofgren officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery in spring. Visitation will be held at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, from 4-8 p.m. and again at the church on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Gideons International.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Michael Williams, Dr. Alex Tretinyak, ThedaCare at Home Hospice, Pastor Tim Lofgren and all the friends who have been there for the family.